Nature's Image Taxidermy

Taxidermist in Ionia, Michigan

(616) 902-1227316 Bliss St, Ionia, MI 48846View on Yelp

About Nature's Image Taxidermy

Nature's Image Taxidermy is based in Ionia, Michigan, the county seat of Ionia County and a community with deep roots in Michigan's rural outdoor traditions. The Grand River runs through this area and supports good fishing, while the surrounding countryside draws deer hunters each fall. Ionia County has a mix of public and private hunting land, and local taxidermists here see a steady flow of work from both whitetail hunters and freshwater anglers. You can reach Nature's Image directly at (616) 902-1227 to get started.

Services

Taxidermy

Services & Process

Nature's Image Taxidermy specializes in creating lifelike mounts that accurately reflect how an animal looked in the field, starting with proper form selection and precise hide fitting for deer and other big game. Fish mounts for species from the Grand River and area lakes, including smallmouth bass and pike, are prepared using techniques that preserve color and scale detail. Bird mounts for turkey, pheasant, and other upland species are finished with attention to feather layering and natural posture. The studio also handles skull cleaning, producing clean European-style mounts that many modern hunters prefer for their straightforward, unadorned look.

Service Area

Nature's Image Taxidermy serves Ionia and surrounding communities throughout Ionia County, including Belding, Saranac, and Lake Odessa. Clients from neighboring Montcalm and Barry counties also bring work here. The studio's central location in west-central Michigan makes it reachable for hunters and anglers across a broad stretch of lower Michigan.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I choose between a shoulder mount and a European skull mount for my deer?
It comes down to budget, space, and personal preference. Shoulder mounts are the traditional trophy display and show the full cape with antlers, while European mounts are more minimal, cost less, and work well in smaller spaces. Many hunters do both, depending on the quality of the animal.
Can you mount fish caught from the Grand River?
Yes, the Grand River produces good smallmouth bass, walleye, and northern pike that are worth mounting. Keep the fish as cold as possible after harvest and contact the studio quickly so they can advise on the best preservation method before transport.
How accurate are reproduction fish mounts compared to skin mounts?
Modern reproduction mounts are extremely accurate when done by a skilled taxidermist using good reference photos and precise measurements. They also hold up better over time since they're not subject to the shrinkage and fading that skin mounts can experience.
Do you work with first-time hunters who've never had a mount done before?
Absolutely. First-time clients are welcome, and a good taxidermist will walk you through every step of the process without assuming you already know what to do. Don't hesitate to ask questions about how to handle your animal in the field to get the best result.
What happens if my hide has some damage from the shot?
Some damage is repairable, especially if it's on the body area that gets covered by the mount form. Entry wounds on the neck or face area can be more challenging, but experienced taxidermists deal with field damage regularly and can assess what's fixable at drop-off.
Do turkeys need to be brought in differently than deer?
Turkey mounts work best when the bird is brought in whole and unfrozen so feathers can be properly positioned and cleaned. If you need to freeze it, place it in a large bag without compressing the feathers, and fold the wings naturally against the body.

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